The Advisory Committee on Local Government Autonomy has asked the chairmen of the 16 councils of Taraba State to align with Governor Agbu Kefas’s vision to ensure that the benefits reach every citizen in the state.
The committee made the call on Tuesday during a sensitisation and interactive session with local government chairmen in the state.
Led by its chairman, Peter Abel Diah, the committee emphasised the importance of using the new autonomy to drive development, improve service delivery, and enhance the well-being of communities spread across Taraba.
The seven-member advisory committee, recently constituted by the state governor, was tasked with the responsibility of establishing a framework for implementing autonomy in the state.
Diah, who stressed the importance of active engagement and collaboration with the committee to ensure a smooth transition, believed that the newfound autonomy comes with greater responsibilities.
“You must be prepared to exercise your power judiciously, with transparency and accountability. You must work closely with traditional rulers and communities, listen to their concerns, and ensure that resources and decision-making processes align with their needs, aspirations, and priorities,” Diah advised.
The committee also engaged with heads of local government administration and directors of finance. While highlighting the significance of the historic judgement, it urged them to demonstrate their ability to manage resources judiciously, implement policies effectively and deliver tangible results that improve the lives of their people.
“You now have a unique opportunity to reshape the landscape of service delivery and development in your respective jurisdiction.
“You must engage your communities, listen to their needs and aspirations and work collaboratively to develop solutions that address their most pressing concerns,” Diah added.
